International School of Zug and Luzern - Zug Campus vs Obersee Bilingual School

	I International School of Zug and Luzern - Zug Campus Zug, Switzerland	O Obersee Bilingual School Zug, Switzerland
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year CHF 16,800 - 36,700	Fees / year CHF 16,590 - 37,590
Age range	Age range 3 - 14 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)	Curriculum Swiss Curriculum, IB (DP), IMYC (International Middle Years Curriculum), Bespoke Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 800	Pupils 450
Typical class size	Typical class size 18	Typical class size 15
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language German, English
Opened	Opened 1961	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Two ISZL campuses are located in Central Switzerland: Baar (Zug Campus) and Hünenberg (Riverside Campus). The Zug Campus address is Walterswil 1, 6340 Baar, Switzerland. The Riverside Campus address is Rothusstrasse 4B, 6331 Hünenberg, Switzerland. The campuses are about 33 km from Zürich Airport.	Location OBS is located at Sihleggstrasse 9, 8832 Wollerau, Switzerland. It sits on the shores of Lake Zurich, about 20 to 30 minutes from Zurich. It is just a 2‑minute walk from a quiet forest and 10 minutes from downtown Pfäffikon, and is easily reachable from the A3 highway.
Stages	Stages Primary School (ages 3–11) follows the IB Primary Years Programme; Middle School (ages 11–14) follows the IB Middle Years Programme; High School (ages 14–18) offers the IB Diploma Programme or the ISZL High School Diploma.	Stages OBS offers Babycare, Preschool, Kindergarten, Primary School, Middle School, and Upper School.
School type	School type The school is a private, non-profit international day school.	School type OBS is a bilingual, international school serving German- and English-speaking students. The language of instruction alternates weekly between German and English from Kindergarten to Grade 6; from Grade 7 the same language is used for each subject for a full year (Mathematics is the exception, with language alternation by semester). From Year 10 onwards, subjects are taught in the language aligned with the chosen school-leaving qualification, with IB Diploma and Federal Matura offered.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix 60 nationalities represented.	Pupil nationality mix One third Swiss families, one third families with a Swiss parent, and one third families from 41 nations.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Support for Additional Learning Needs is tailored to the individual and provided in-class, in small groups, or one-on-one.	Additional learning support OBS+ Learning Support provides support across the curriculum.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Switzerland	Country affiliation Switzerland
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Non-denominational	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure School hours are Primary and Middle School 08:50–15:30 and High School 08:40–16:00, Monday–Friday. A daily hot lunch is available at an additional cost, and the Eagles after-school care runs 15:30–18:00 for Early Years–Grade 8.	School day structure Early care is available from 7:15 am; late care is available from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm. The timetable includes arrival at 8:15–8:30 am and dismissal at 3:55 pm; on Wednesdays dismissal is at 12:40 pm; a late bus is available at 5:10 pm (17:10) on Monday–Thursday.
Bus service details	Bus service details Transportation includes a school bus for the Zug Campus; parents may drive or students can use public transport; High School students primarily use public transport.	Bus service details In collaboration with Eberhard Travel, OBS provides a bus service with two routes: Pfäffikon – Altendorf – Lachen – Feusisberg – Wollerau and Thalwil – Horgen – Wädenswil – Wollerau. Timetable: Mon–Fri arrival 8:15–8:30; departure 15:55; Wednesdays 12:40; Mon–Thu late bus departure 17:10.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / registration fee - A non‑refundable registration fee is required to confirm each student's place. Starting amounts are: CHF 2,000 for entry in Early Years 1; CHF 3,000 for entry in Early Years 2; and CHF 5,000 for entry in Kindergarten or any grade above. The registration fee is one‑time and is not credited toward tuition. Tuition fees by year group (annual and per term) - Early Years 1 (mornings only): Annual CHF 16,650 — Per term CHF 5,550.00. - Early Years 1 (full time): Annual CHF 26,050 — Per term CHF 8,683.33. - Early Years 2 (mornings only): Annual CHF 16,850 — Per term CHF 5,616.67. - Early Years 2 (full time): Annual CHF 27,800 — Per term CHF 9,266.67. - Kindergarten: Annual CHF 32,700 — Per term CHF 10,900.00. - Grades 1–5 (Primary): Annual CHF 32,900 — Per term CHF 10,966.67. - Grades 6–8 (Middle School): Annual CHF 36,300 — Per term CHF 12,100.00. - Grades 9–10 (High School): Annual CHF 38,700 — Per term CHF 12,900.00. - Grades 11–12 (High School senior years): Annual CHF 39,200 — Per term CHF 13,066.67. (Per‑term figures are the annual tuition divided by three terms and shown to two decimal places.) Billing schedule and payment terms - Enrolment is for the full school year. All invoices are sent electronically and tuition invoices are payable within thirty (30) days of the invoice date or before the start of the next payment period. Any bank fees charged when transferring funds must be paid by the sender. Interest on overdue amounts is charged at 12% per year. Payment options for private payers may be arranged in 2, 3, 4 or 8 instalments; an administration fee of CHF 200 per child per year applies to any instalment plan. Instalment due dates are specified in the school's financial regulations (examples: for 3 instalments — payments due around July 31, November 30 and February 28; for 4 instalments — July 31, September 30, November 30 and February 28; for 2 instalments — July 31 and January 31). Employer payments (registration or tuition paid directly by an employer) can be indicated on the fees/payment information. Boarding fees - Boarding is not offered; ISZL operates as a non‑profit co‑educational day school (no boarding fees apply). Other costs and typical additional fees - Lunch programme: charged separately. - School bus / transport service: charged separately. - Music Academy lessons and other optional co‑curricular lessons: charged separately. - Multilingual Academy / extra language classes: charged separately. - External exam and course fees for Grades 11–12 (AP/IB/College Board exam fees) and college application‑related expenses: charged to families as applicable. - Optional trips, tournaments and some extracurricular trips: charged separately as applicable. - Parents' Association annual membership fee: CHF 40 per child, added to the invoice. - Uniform: there is no formal compulsory uniform; a dress code applies and optional branded sports/PE items are available for purchase. Any costs for optional branded items are additional. Refunds and withdrawal charges (summary of main rules) - The registration fee is non‑refundable. - New students who cancel a confirmed enrolment before classes start will be charged a percentage of the relevant tuition if cancellation is within the notice window (examples given in the school's enrolment and finance policies: a 25% charge applies for new‑student cancellations unless notice is received at least four calendar months before the start date). Re‑enrolment and late withdrawal rules include a 25% late withdrawal charge if a student is withdrawn after re‑enrolment. - Force majeure, school closure for reasons beyond the school's control, and student disciplinary suspension/expulsion do not entitle families to a refund of tuition or other fees. - Unpaid invoices may be pursued externally and related collection costs may be charged to the family. Fee payment methods and practical notes - Invoices are issued electronically. Payment instructions require the payer to cover any bank transfer charges. Payment is arranged via the Business Office; instalment plans must be pre‑arranged each year. Employer direct payment of registration and/or tuition is accommodated where indicated. The school's published materials specify bank transfer and invoicing as the standard mechanisms; families should follow the invoice payment instructions. Overdue fees incur interest (12% p.a.) and missed or late payments may trigger collection action. Summary statement - Annual tuition at ISZL varies by age and grade from CHF 16,650 (Early Years 1 mornings) up to CHF 39,200 (Grades 11–12) with standard billing aligned to the school's three‑term academic year. Registration fees, instalment administration fees, and a set of optional additional charges (meals, transport, extracurricular lessons, exam fees, trips, parents' association fee) are applied in addition to tuition. The school is a day school and does not charge boarding fees. Refunds are limited: the registration fee is non‑refundable and withdrawal/cancellation charges apply per the school's enrolment and financial regulations; force majeure and disciplinary exclusions to refunds apply.	Fee details Application and Assessment Fees - Application fee (one-off, non-refundable): CHF 300 for Baby Care / Preschool; CHF 500 for Kindergarten, Primary, Middle and Upper School. - Placement assessment (required for new entrants from Grade 5; also available on request to existing students): CHF 1,190. Registration and One‑off Payments - One-off registration cost for new entrants from Kindergarten: CHF 2,500, due on signing of the contract and invoicing. Deposit / Security Payment - A deposit is required on contract signing. Deposit amounts by level: - Baby Care / Preschool: CHF 1,500.00. - Kindergarten: CHF 2,500.00. - Grades 1–6 (Primary): CHF 3,000.00. - Grades 7–9 (Middle): CHF 4,000.00. - Grades 10–13 (Upper): CHF 5,000.00. - Deposit refund: the deposit will be refunded if the child leaves after completing at least one academic year and all associated fees for that period have been paid; otherwise the right to a refund is forfeited. The deposit is separate from school fees. Annual tuition and care fees (school year 2025/2026) — fees shown per school year, with a per-term breakdown given as equal third installments - Baby Care (days per week and annual fee): - Two full days (minimum): CHF 16,590 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 5,530.00. - Additional full day: CHF 7,990 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 2,663.33. - Five full days: CHF 37,590 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 12,530.00. - Separately booked extra day: CHF 209 each — Per term (1/3): CHF 69.67. - (Annual fees for Baby Care include meals, snacks and nappies up to size 6.) - Preschool (Pre‑K): - Two full days (minimum): CHF 15,590 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 5,196.67. - Additional full day: CHF 7,190 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 2,396.67. - Five full days: CHF 35,240 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 11,746.67. - Half day (Wednesday and/or Friday morning): CHF 4,219 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 1,406.33. - Separately booked extra half-day: CHF 109 — Per term (1/3): CHF 36.33. - Separately booked extra day: CHF 209 — Per term (1/3): CHF 69.67. - (Preschool annual fees include meals, snacks and nappies up to size 6.) - Kindergarten (school and childcare fee per school year, including lunch and snacks): - 3½ days (minimum: 5 mornings, 2 afternoons): CHF 28,649 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 9,549.67. - 4 days (5 mornings, 3 afternoons): CHF 29,890 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 9,963.33. - 4½ days (5 mornings, 4 afternoons): CHF 31,229 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 10,409.67. - Extra half-day booked separately: CHF 109 — Per term (1/3): CHF 36.33. - Grades 1–6 (Primary): CHF 34,990 per school year — Per term (1/3): CHF 11,663.33. (Includes 4.5 days of lessons per week; meals and snacks included.) - Grades 7–9 (Middle School): CHF 35,490 per school year — Per term (1/3): CHF 11,830.00. (Includes five days of teaching; learning community sessions and lunch/snacks included.) - Grades 10–13 (Upper School — IB or Matura): CHF 35,990 per school year — Per term (1/3): CHF 11,996.67. (Includes five days of teaching; learning community to 17:00 on some days; lunch/snacks included.) - Meal opt-out (from Grade 7 onwards): a reduction of CHF 810 per year if the student opts out of school meals; canteen meal price when taken: CHF 12 per meal. Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoices (tuition and care) are issued via eBill or as a PDF by e‑mail and carry a payment term of 30 days. Overdue invoices trigger staged reminder fees: CHF 10 at 10 days overdue, CHF 30 at 20 days overdue, CHF 50 at 30 days overdue. - The fee regulations treat tuition as fixed annual costs; there is no entitlement to fee reduction for absences (illness, holidays, public holidays). - The fee schedule includes a sibling discount: 10% discount on school fees for the second child; when three or more children are enrolled, each child (including the first) receives a 10% discount. Boarding - Boarding is not provided; OBS operates as a day school with services such as school meals, bus service, early and late care and holiday clubs. Other chargeable items and typical additional costs - School camps, study trips, winter sports days, cultural weeks, external examinations (IB, Matura) and voluntary language/computer diplomas are charged separately; examples of camp/trip cost ranges (school year 2025/26): - Years 5–6 summer camp: approx. CHF 400–600 per stay. - Years 7–9 camps: approx. CHF 600–1,200 per stay. - Grade 10 camps: approx. CHF 900–1,500 per trip. - Grades 11–12 study trips abroad: approx. CHF 900–1,800 per trip. - These trip and camp charges are invoiced separately and based on actual costs. - Early care (07:15–08:15), late care (16:00–18:30) and Wednesday afternoon supervision have supplementary fees when applicable (examples from the fee schedule: booked quarterly in advance CHF 10–CHF 61 depending on service; last-minute booking higher). Charges for late pickup after 18:30 are specifically set (e.g., CHF 60 for first 15 minutes, CHF 80 for each subsequent 15-minute interval). Holiday-care daily rate (from Preschool) example: CHF 150 per day. - The school bus is provided by an external operator; bus stops and prices vary by route and are charged separately. Refunds and non‑refundable items - Application fee: non-refundable. - Deposit: refundable only after the child has completed at least one academic year and all associated fees for that period have been paid; otherwise it may be forfeited. - Registration fee for new entrants from Kindergarten (CHF 2,500) is payable on signing; the fee regulations set out that certain one-off payments are due on contract signature. - Excursion, travel and external-provider costs (flights, train tickets, accommodation) are generally non-refundable by the provider and may still be charged if the child does not participate, except where a medical certificate for illness is provided in time, as detailed in the fee regulations. Fee payment options - Invoices are issued via eBill or as a PDF by e-mail; the fee regulations specify the invoicing channel and payment term (30 days) but do not list a specific set of payment instruments (e.g., credit card, direct debit) in the published fee regulations. Families receive an invoice and arrange payment according to the invoice instructions (eBill in Switzerland is commonly settled via electronic banking). If you need the figures presented in a different currency or split on a different instalment basis, the annual amounts provided above can be converted or divided accordingly.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement No formal uniform is required. Students must dress appropriately and in accordance with the ISZL Dress Code.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options The Zug Campus offers an optional hot lunch programme; meals are prepared on-site in the school kitchen and served daily in the cafeteria. Menus can be viewed by parents via the Parent Portal.	Food options Head chef Marc Köhler and the team provide well-balanced meals using organic and locally sourced ingredients. Two to three days a week feature meat or fish, with vegetarian and vegan options available on other days, and Bircher muesli served daily. Over 550 meals are prepared daily.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership ISZL is a non-profit foundation under Swiss law, approved by the educational authorities of Zug and Luzern. The Board of Trustees defines the mission, vision, and strategic goals, appoints the Director, and oversees finances, with four standing committees: Governance, Facilities, Finance and Audit, and Fundraising.	Governance and ownership The school is an independent German and English school. It is part of the Cognita group.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details ISZL follows the International Baccalaureate framework across the Primary, Middle, and High School. Primary School uses the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). Middle School uses the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP). High School offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or the ISZL High School Diploma, with pathways that include Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the BTEC Diploma in Creative Media. The school operates on two campuses: Zug (Zug Campus for Primary and Middle) and Riverside (High School), with English as the main language of instruction and dedicated EAL support and German offered as an additional language.	Curriculum details The school uses a bilingual curriculum in English and German. From Kindergarten to Grade 6, the entire curriculum is delivered in English and German, with the language of instruction switching weekly. From Grade 7, subjects are taught in the same language for a full academic year per subject, with Mathematics taught in the other language each semester to reinforce skills. From Year 10 onward, the language of instruction is determined by the chosen school-leaving qualification. The curriculum also includes Future Skills to develop contemporary and future-oriented competencies.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio 1:7	Student teacher ratio Approximately 7.2 students per teacher (456 students / 63 teachers).
Exam results	Exam results ISZL high school students in Grades 11 and 12 earn a range of internationally recognised qualifications, including Advanced Placement exams, BTEC Diplomas in Creative Media, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Our students consistently achieve results well above global averages.	Exam results IB Diploma Program with 48 students; 6 successful Matura graduates; 3 successful IB Diploma years.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression ISZL provides university advising with personalised guidance on course selection and curriculum pathways, psychometric testing, information about external assessments, and guidance on university applications (including UK UCAS, Netherlands Studielink, and the USA Common Application). Formal university preparation begins in Grade 10, with Grade 11 offering biweekly university seminars and Grade 12 focused on applications; students can submit up to ten university applications worldwide.	Higher education progression Upper School prepares students for success in the IB Diploma or Federal Matura. The IB Diploma Program is offered with 48 students; the school has produced Matura graduates (6) and completed 3 IB Diploma years.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented Enrichment programmes include the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, Youth Forum Switzerland, after‑school clubs, competitive sports, and service learning, which support leadership, creativity, and global citizenship as part of ISZL's enrichment offering.	Gifted and talented From Year 7, students may apply to become Advanced Learners. Advanced learners receive coaching and have monthly meetings with a learning coach to review progress; they can choose where they learn and which inputs they attend. Competencies for advanced learners include strong organisation, time management, focus and self-reflection, objective setting, healthy screen time, conflict-resolution skills, and self-awareness.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Wellbeing is embedded in ISZL's daily life across both campuses. The wellbeing approach is holistic, addressing emotional, social, and physical health. Strong relationships, dedicated guidance and a caring community help students build confidence and life skills. The four pillars of wellbeing are awareness, insight, connection and purpose. Small homeroom groups provide daily mentoring, circle discussions and grade assemblies to support self-awareness and empathy. Residential and experiential trips, including the Duke of Edinburgh activities and time at the school chalet in Wengen, extend wellbeing learning beyond the classroom.	Social & emotional learning The school has a social-emotional learning programme and counselling services. Aikido is integrated into the curriculum to support mental resilience and conflict resolution. The environment prioritizes emotional safety and wellbeing through staff training in safety procedures and safeguarding.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) All ISZL campuses provide support for students with identified mild to moderate learning needs. The High School Learning Support team works with students, teachers and families to understand individual needs and develop personalised learning plans. Support may include in-class assistance, small group sessions, or one-to-one instruction. A trained mental health professional supports student wellbeing as part of the broader support services. The policy framework supports inclusive practice for diverse learning needs.	Special educational needs (SEN) OBS+ Learning Support provides in-class, small group, or individual support. Learning support teachers work with classroom and specialist teachers to give the right help at the right time. German and English as an Additional Language programmes build language skills, with a placement assessment for new Middle and Upper School applicants (Grades 5–12).
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language (EAL) is provided for students who do not have English as their first language or who have been educated in a different language. From building vocabulary and reading comprehension to supporting classroom participation, the EAL team helps students grow language skills and confidence in the ISZL community. The Primary School EAL programme is built on the PYP framework. The school also supports multilingual learners through first language programmes and multilingual resources. EAL support is integrated with curriculum to enable access to subject content.	English as an additional language German and English as an Additional Language programmes build language skills, with a placement assessment for new Middle and Upper School applicants (Grades 5–12).
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Trained mental health professionals play a key role in student wellbeing. They help students navigate challenges, build resilience, and set personal goals. They also contribute to the PSHE programme and provide staff with strategies to support students' social and emotional development. Wellbeing is supported through dedicated guidance and a caring community, with small homeroom groups fostering personal development. Residential and school chalet experiences, such as Personal Development Week and other trips, contribute to students' wellbeing and social-emotional growth.	Mental wellbeing Counselling services are available and an integrated social-emotional learning programme supports student well-being. Aikido is used to foster mental resilience and stress management within the curriculum.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding students is central to recruitment and daily practice. Annual child protection training is provided. We use reporting platforms such as MyConcern and Confide for reporting concerns. All staff undergo criminal background checks and reference checks before hiring. The Child Protection Handbook shows how we create a safe environment for our students.	Safeguarding A comprehensive safeguarding and safety framework prioritizes student safety, with a Designated Safeguarding Lead and deputies, mandatory safeguarding training for staff, clear reporting procedures, and policies covering first aid and anti-bullying. The framework emphasizes early intervention, parent communication, and age-appropriate education on personal safety, including online risks.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview ISZL operates two campuses in Central Switzerland: the Zug Campus for Early Years through Middle School and the Riverside Campus in Hünenberg for High School. The Zug Campus centers on the historic Wettinger House (17th century) surrounded by modern buildings, with 75 rooms to explore. The Riverside Campus features the main building with over 20 classrooms, science labs, a library, an art atelier and music rooms, the triple gym, and additional space in the neighboring Seeblick and Alpenblick buildings. ISZL also owns Chalet Bergheim, a wooden Outdoor Education Centre in Wengen for outdoor learning and residential trips.	Facilities overview OBS is located near Lake Zurich, providing an ideal learning environment that combines accessibility with natural beauty. The campus's proximity to both urban amenities and natural surroundings creates opportunities for experiential learning and outdoor activities. The school is a 20–30 minute distance from Zürich, making it accessible while preserving a peaceful, focused learning environment away from urban distractions. Our facilities are state-of-the-art and designed to support modern learning while inspiring creativity and collaboration. Technology-enabled classrooms and specialized labs for science and arts are complemented by outdoor learning spaces and sports facilities.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The Riverside Campus features the triple gym.	Sports facilities Sports facilities are part of the campus. Outdoor learning spaces are integrated with the sports facilities. The facilities support physical activity and environmental awareness. The school invests in maintenance and upgrades to ensure access to the tools and environments needed for learning.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Zug Campus comprises the historic Wettinger House (17th century) and modern buildings, with 75 rooms to explore. The Riverside Campus houses the High School with over 20 classrooms, science labs, a library, an art atelier and music rooms.	Academic facilities Technology-enabled classrooms support modern learning. Specialized labs for science and arts are available. Every space is designed to enhance the learning experience. Outdoor learning spaces complement indoor facilities. Maintenance and upgrades ensure students have access to up-to-date resources.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Chalet Bergheim Outdoor Education Centre in Wengen serves as the school's outdoor education centre.	Extra curricular facilities Clubs and activities include E-Sports, Prime Time Math Club, Miss Marcela's Cooking & Baking Club, and Aikido. Future Skills programs include OBS Media Academy, OBS Space Agency, and OBS Ocean & Life Explorers. There are 30+ leisure clubs. Leisure activities, holiday clubs and after-school services extend participation beyond the school day.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History ISZL has a deeply rooted history in the canton of Zug in Central Switzerland, where our story began long before we embraced the name ISZL. For more than 60 years, ISZL has grown from a small tutoring group for 14 American children of Willy's employees, known as Willy's School, to an expansive multicampus community serving around 1,200 students from 60 countries. What began as Willy's School was renamed the Zug Anglo-American School in 1964, and the campus relocated through the 1960s to accommodate growth. In 2008, the merger of the International School of Zug, the International School of Luzern, and the Riverside School formed the ISZL we know today, followed by expansion such as Chalet Bergheim and the mission 'Respect, Motivate, Achieve'. Plans for a new Middle School campus next to the High School in Hünenberg are planned for opening in 2028.	History —
Community	Community ISZL has strong ties with the wider Swiss community. Orientation Day is held on both the Zug and Riverside campuses to welcome new families, and the PA provides Community Representatives to connect families with others who share cultural backgrounds. The annual ISZL Community events include International Day, Community Festival, the Winter Market, Welcome Fair, Trunk or Treat, Quiz Night, and Wine & Cheese tasting. The PA's Neighbourhood Networks help connect families with local services, carers and clubs.	Community OBS has a diverse, international community with one third Swiss families, one third families with a Swiss parent, and one third families from 41 nations. The school offers 30+ leisure clubs to support students' interests. Clubs and activities include E-Sports, Prime Time Math Club, Miss Marcela's Cooking & Baking Club, and Aikido.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association ISZL's Parents' Association (PA) is the active volunteer body behind the ISZL community, with over 300 volunteers who help organise events and welcome new families. It supports school initiatives and offers social and cultural activities, informal coffee mornings, and practical advice to families settling in. Class and Grade Representatives act as a bridge between parents and the school, with class representatives in Primary and grade representatives in Middle and High School. The PA connects families through Neighbourhood Networks to share local tips and arrange carpooling. The PA also leads and supports a range of clubs and events, including the annual International Day.	Parent teacher association OBS Parents Association serves as a vital bridge between parents and the school, safeguarding student, parent, and school interests while providing support services to create an optimal learning environment. The association welcomes and integrates new families, particularly those from abroad, by facilitating connections between parents and helping them build social networks within the school community. The association remains politically and religiously neutral and operates through a General Meeting, Board of Directors, Project Teams, and Auditors. All parents with enrolled children automatically become active members unless they opt out. The association organizes events, manages funds from activities and donations, and provides a formal channel for parents to contribute to the school community while building lasting friendships and support networks.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The Activities Programme offers opportunities for personal growth, creativity, and connection. The activities are organized into three categories: Visual and Performing Arts; Recreational Sports; and Academic Enrichment And Student Leadership. In Academic Enrichment And Student Leadership, ISZL offers Digital Creators, German, Leadership & Action, Aquaponics/Urban Gardening, Swiss Young Naturalists Tournament, Creative Thinking, SATs Prep, Debate, Vex Robotics, Eco-schools, Model United Nations, Live Media Technicians, Medical Society, Student Ambassadors, Spanish, and Student-led Activities in the Primary School. Students learn new skills, understand the importance of commitment and resilience, and develop creativity, independence, communication, and leadership, while engaging in service projects.	Academic & intellectual Clubs include Euler Club, Maths Program, Prime Time Math Club and Number Wizards. Other options include Science through Play and Coding and Robotics. The after-school programme extends learning beyond class and supports academic growth.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Visual and Performing Arts is one of the three activity categories. ISZL provides Drama; Guitar or Wind Band; Photography; Sinfonia; Theatre Production; Improv; Raku Ceramics; and Mural Creating and Painting. Some activities, such as orchestra and choir, run all year round.	Arts & creative Clubs include Adventures in Art 1 and 2, Art (language Swiss German) and Kunst. Miss Marcela's Afternoon Talent Club and Miss Marcela's Cooking & Baking Club foster creativity. Dance, Ballet, Theatre and Piano Lessons offer performance and musical expression.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language German and Spanish are featured in Academic Enrichment. Model United Nations is included as an academic enrichment activity. Youth Forum Switzerland provides an international platform for student leaders to discuss global issues and to develop leadership and communication skills through inviting speakers, shaping programmes, and coordinating activities.	Cultural & language French, German Story Telling Club, Swiss German, Chinese and Spanish are offered. Spanish Mother Tongue and other language clubs support bilingual development. Clubs provide language practice in authentic, after-school contexts.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The Activities Programme offers opportunities to pursue passions and connect with others. ISZL's activity categories—Visual and Performing Arts, Recreational Sports, and Academic Enrichment—allow students to pursue a wide range of interests and hobbies. The program encourages students to step out of their comfort zone and pursue their passions while building empathy through service projects.	Social & hobbies Clubs cover a wide range of hobbies and social interests, including E‑Sports, CrossFit Kids and Playball. Dance Club, Karate, Aikido and Chess promote teamwork and leisure. Adventures in Art, Theatre and Music clubs offer creative outlets.
Community & service	Community & service Students engage in service projects through Academic Enrichment and Student Leadership activities. Youth Forum Switzerland includes initiatives focused on sustainability and environmental responsibility. Personal Development Week, with a school chalet in Wengen, focuses on teamwork and social and environmental responsibility, laying the foundation for project-based service learning. ISZL also provides on-campus health and wellbeing support through registered nurses and mental health professionals.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Youth Forum Switzerland is entirely student-led, with Grade 11 and 12 students taking ownership of every aspect. Participants develop real-world skills in organisation, public speaking, media engagement, and strategic thinking. ISZL students lead in inviting speakers, shaping the programme, and coordinating logistics for the forum.	Leadership & professional —
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing in High School is holistic, recognizing the importance of emotional, social, and physical health. The four pillars of wellbeing are awareness, insight, connection, and purpose. Small homeroom groups provide daily one-to-one mentoring, circle discussions, and assemblies to build self-awareness, empathy, and confidence. Personal Development Week includes grade-level trips across Europe and a school chalet in Wengen, hosting Duke of Edinburgh International Award activities and ski trips, supporting teamwork and leadership, while on-campus nurses and mental health professionals support student wellbeing.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Physical activity is a focus with CrossFit Kids, Darren's Football Training and Forest Adventures. Dance Club and Karate contribute to fitness and coordination. The after-school programme supports wellbeing through structured, safe activities.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The main language of instruction is English. German, French and Spanish are offered as foreign language courses. The school runs a First Language Programme to support home/heritage languages, with a broad range of languages studied (including Brazilian Portuguese, Chinese, Czech, Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, and more). English language support (EAL) is provided for about 20% of students to access the curriculum.	Language provision Languages of instruction are English and German. The entire curriculum is delivered in English and German from Kindergarten to Grade 6, with weekly language switching. From Grade 7, instruction is in the same language for a full year per subject (Mathematics is the exception). From Year 10, the language of instruction for subjects is determined by the chosen school-leaving qualification.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching The school has a First Language Programme to support students' home languages and enable IB Bilingual Diploma. German, French and Spanish are offered as foreign language courses. The main language of instruction is English. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided for about 20% of students.	Bilingual teaching The school offers bilingual education in English and German. From baby care through kindergarten to Grade 6, the curriculum is delivered in English and German, with the language of instruction switching weekly. From Grade 7, students receive instruction in the same language for an entire year for each subject, with Mathematics as the exception where the teaching language alternates each semester. From Year 10 onwards, subjects taught in German or English are determined by the chosen school-leaving qualification.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs A bilingual immersion approach is used, with native speakers of both German and English on staff. The curriculum alternates weekly between German and English instruction from Kindergarten through Grade 6, and key terms for every new subject are introduced in both languages to build a bilingual vocabulary.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards The school has earned the Eco-Schools Green Flag Award.	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations The school is an IB World School. It carries accreditation/membership with NEASC and CIS, ECIS, ISTA and other associations as part of its international standing.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Submitting Your Application: Applications are accepted throughout the year, depending on availability; there is no application fee, but a registration fee is required once a place is offered. For Primary School (Ages 3–11), complete the online application and upload the passport, school reports, and a teacher evaluation. For Middle and High School (Ages 11–18), submit the online form, passport, transcripts, and two teacher evaluations, including one from a current maths teacher. An English language assessment may be required for mid-year entry from Grade 7. 2. Application Review and Language Assessment: After submission, the Admissions Committee reviews the application and aims to provide an outcome within 10 working days; if support services are required, the process may take longer. If admitted but there is no space, the child may be placed on a waiting list. If entering mid-year (Grade 7+), an English language assessment may be required. 3. Offer and Registration: If admission is granted, a formal offer and a non-refundable registration fee are issued. After payment, the place is confirmed. The offer outlines the next steps and the start date. 4. Preparation and Portal Access: Before your child begins classes, you will receive access to the Parent Portal with resources and the ability to sign up for school services. The portal helps you prepare for the first day at ISZL. Access is provided prior to the start date. 5. The Zug Campus (Early Years–Grade 8) is Walterswil 1, 6340 Baar. The Riverside Campus (Grade 9–12) is Rothusstrasse 4B, 6331 Hünenberg.	Admissions Step 1: Get in Touch and Visit OBS. Visit the campus to see classrooms, meet teachers, and get a feel for the learning environment. Open days are offered to help families understand whether OBS is the right fit. Step 2: Complete the application form. To begin, complete the online School registration form. The application fee is non-refundable and does not guarantee admission. Fees are CHF 300 for Baby Care / Pre-kindergarten and CHF 500 for Kindergarten / Primary School / Middle School / Upper School. Step 3: Submit the relevant documents. For Early Years there is no requirement to submit documentation prior to enrollment. For Primary, Middle and Upper School, provide the most recent report card or end-of-year report; if there are diagnosed conditions or if the child receives additional learning support or therapy, provide further information including recent diagnostic reports and the student's IEP if applicable. OBS reserves the right to offer a conditional place pending receipt of all required documents. If capacity is reached, your child can be placed on the waiting list. Step 4: Assessments, Trial Days and Feedback. Primary candidates undergo an internal assessment in language proficiency and mathematics. Admission to Middle and Upper School requires a comprehensive evaluation, including language skills, potential analysis, and a personality assessment by a psychologist. Each candidate attends two trial days, with one day in a German-language classroom and the other in an English-language setting. Afterward, there is a consultative meeting with the relevant Department Head; for middle and upper school, the evaluating psychologist discusses the results. Step 5: Offer of a place. If the application is approved, the Admissions Team extends an offer of enrollment contingent on space availability. A Confirmation of Acceptance will be sent to you via email after we receive the full registration fee, which is non-refundable. If capacity is reached, your child will be added to our waiting list and you will be notified once a space becomes available. Admission approvals depend on the provision of all requested documentation and the payment of the application fee.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist If admission is granted but there is no space, the child may be placed on a waiting list.	Waitlist If capacity is reached, a waiting list is used. Families are notified when a space becomes available.
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